Advice and Support Carmarthenshire (ASC)

Older people living in Carmarthenshire are amongst the first to benefit from a new network established to help people manage debt, benefits and finances.

Advice and Support Carmarthenshire (ASC) brings together organisations that offer advice on matters relating to money, savings, housing, benefits or specialist services, such as help for people who are blind or receiving cancer treatment.

Around 50 institutions are part of the network, which is chaired by Cllr Kevin Madge, the council’s Anti Poverty Champion.

In the first of a series of campaigns undertaken by the network, the council has linked up with Age Concern Sir Gar and CATCH UP to encourage more people to apply for Attendance Allowance.

The benefit is available to people over 65 who need assistance to live their daily lives, whether they need help with shopping, dressing or bathing. It is not means-tested, which means people do not need to submit any financial evidence.

Cllr Madge said: “Applying for Attendance Allowance could be the first step towards securing a better financial future. I’d encourage anyone aged over 65 who receives help to get in touch with us – we are here to help.”

Anyone who wants to know more about Attendance Allowance can ring the council’s Contact Centre on 01267 234567. Age Concern Sir Gar will arrange follow-up appointments, over the phone or face-to-face, will help fill forms and refer to other agencies that may also offer help.